Defamatory content about me is circulating on multiple websites and social media platforms and I have filed a criminal complaint. Can the criminal court pass an order directing removal or takedown of defamatory online content as part of the criminal proceedings or must I file a separate civil suit for this relief in Pune?
If defamatory content about you continues to circulate online, you will be relieved to know that seeking its removal is very much possible alongside criminal proceedings in Pune, and this is often one of the most urgent priorities for victims. While filing a criminal complaint under Section 356 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita addresses accountability for the defamation itself, victims can simultaneously approach the court for interim directions seeking removal or blocking of the defamatory content under Section 79 read with Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, or through a separate application before the concerned Magistrate or High Court. Pune courts have increasingly recognised the urgency of content removal, given how quickly defamatory material can spread and cause irreversible reputational harm.
The process typically involves filing a formal application detailing the specific URLs, posts, or accounts hosting the defamatory content, along with evidence establishing its false and damaging nature, after which the court can direct the platform or intermediary to take down the material. Many social media platforms and websites also have their own internal grievance redressal mechanisms that can be pursued in parallel, often yielding faster results while the criminal complaint proceeds through formal channels. Acting quickly is essential, since defamatory content tends to spread rapidly, and every day of delay increases the difficulty of fully containing the damage.
It is advisable to pursue both the criminal complaint and the removal request simultaneously rather than treating them as sequential steps, since this dual approach maximises both protective and punitive outcomes for the victim. Reaching out through Aapka Legal Advice ensures your legal team pursues content takedown and criminal accountability in a coordinated and efficient manner.
Given the time-sensitive nature of content removal requests, engaging the Top criminal Lawyers in Pune | Aapka Legal Advice promptly significantly improves your chances of limiting the spread and impact of defamatory material.
For urgent or high-profile reputation matters, our panel of retired judges is available to advise on the most effective combination of legal remedies to pursue. In conclusion, you can absolutely seek removal of defamatory content as part of criminal proceedings in Pune, and swift, coordinated legal action offers the best protection for your reputation.